Frequently Asked Questions
Following are the most frequently asked questions received in our Emergency Departments.
Will I be treated by residents?
Cleveland Clinic is a teaching institution. Patients benefit from the involvement of residents and students with their instructors. All patients are seen by a staff physician when residents or students are involved.
Will I be treated by medical students?
Cleveland Clinic is a teaching institution. Patients benefit from the involvement of residents and students with their instructors. All patients are seen by a staff physician when residents or students are involved
What are residents? Are they doctors?
Residents are physicians who have completed medical school and are receiving additional specialty training.
Can I make an appointment to see the same doctor who treated me in the ED?
The emergency department does not accept appointments.
What is the best time to come to the ED?
The emergency department is available 24 hours a day for patients who require immediate care. It is not always predictable when it will be busy. Patients are seen in order based on an assessment of their illness.
How do I know if I need to come to the ED?
The emergency department is always available to patients who feel that they have a problem that cannot wait for an appointment with their primary care physician.
If I come to the ED will my doctor see me?
Emergency department patients are seen by physicians with training or experience in the specialty of emergency medicine. We obtain consultations as needed, based on our assessment of your problems.
How long can I expect to wait?
The emergency department is available 24 hours a day for patients who require immediate care. It is not always predictable how long you will have to wait. Patients are seen in order based on an assessment of their illness.
Will I be asked to be a research subject or part of a research project?
The emergency department conducts research in a variety of areas. Patients are asked for their permission before we place them in a research protocol.
What if I disagree with the doctor who treats me (treated me)?
The emergency physicians are trained specialists. If you have a question about your care, you should discuss it with the nurse and physician caring for you.
Can I get an appointment with a specialist from the ED?
The emergency department will refer you to your primary care physician or to a specialist based on an assessment of your problem.
Can I see a specialist if I come to the ED?
Emergency department patients are seen by physicians with training or experience in the specialty of emergency medicine. We obtain consultations as needed, based on our assessment of your problems.
Can I get medication samples from the ED?
State regulations have limited the availability of medication samples. We generally do not have a supply of samples for patients.
